FA Cup fifth round draw: Southampton to host Portsmouth in plum tie

24 January 2010 06:38

All eyes will be on the south coast during fifth round weekend where Southampton are to host struggling Portsmouth.

The League One outfit progressed courtesy of a 2-1 win over Ipswich and will fancy themselves against their nearest rivals when they meet in February.

Cup favourites Chelsea were handed a kind draw, hosting 2008 finalists Cardiff City, while Stoke's reward for their first ever FA Cup triumph over Arsenal is a tricky trip to Manchester City.

On target: Dean Whitehead celebrates his first Stoke City goal

The Midlands could also be a hotbed of cup fever with Derby County drawn against in-form Birmingham City, and Carling Cup finalists Aston Villa potentially facing Wolves. Mick McCarthy's side, though, first need to overcome Crystal Palace in a replay.

Giant-killers Reading, who have already dispensed with Premier League teams Liverpool and Burnley, can expect a stern examination by high-flying Championship side West Brom.